Trout time has arrived around Mammoth and the surrounding communities.

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Trout time has arrived around the Eastern Sierra's many water-close communities.

NO TINSEL-DISPLAYING IS REQUIRED... when Fishmas arrives in the Eastern Sierra, and donning an elf hat or outlandish snowman sweater is not necessary (though we suppose if you want to do so, well then, go for it). Fishmas is, in fact, a springtime holiday, one that's celebrated around the lakes and streams near Mammoth and Bishop and Independence. That fact, that it is a water-based party, as well as its name, can easily clue anyone into what it is about: fishing. Specifically trout fishing, which tends to be pretty darn top-notch in the areas that sit adjacent to Highway 395. And a very merry Fishmas arrives on time, each and every year, on the final Saturday in April. In 2016 that's...

APRIL 30, and the festive Fishmasing will be going down around several water-wonderful spots, from Convict Lake (where there's a cash derby in honor of Opening Weekend) to a cast-your-line derby at Crowley Lake, where the "(f)ishing will commence one hour before sunrise." The Sierra Nevada Resort was the setting for a Fishmas Eve dinner, while Tom's Place Resort will also be honoring the big kick-off weekend.

EVEN IF YOU DON'T HEAD UP... for Fishmas, count on seeing anglers aplenty in the weeks ahead, dotting the Eastern Sierra's lush, mountain-fed burblers. The peak-topping snow was solid over the past winter, which means the waters are running well. Dig out those waders and make for the 395, fish fans.